This week, Amelia Williams celebrates thirty years of service to Rauch. Amelia, our Director of Children's Services, began her tenure at Rauch as a Developmental Therapist.

Amelia was born in Carbondale, Illinois, the fifth of six children. Her father was a postal worker and her mother was a photographer and developer for the Southern Illinoisan until the chemicals in the darkroom started to cause scarring on her lungs.

Amelia always knew that she wanted to work with troubled children, but did not have clear direction on exactly how until her cousin Deon was born. She would babysit for Deon and his brother, and was always puzzled by Deon’s odd behavior. He would flap his hands, make guttural sounds but not talk, and seemed to be most happy when he was under the bed.

One day, Amelia babysat for her uncle and aunt, but they took Deon with them. They went to St. Louis for the entire day, and it was very late when they returned. It was clear that something significant had happened, but Amelia also knew knew not to ask. She later learned that Deon had gone for testing and was diagnosed with Autism.

Amelia didn't have a concept of what Autism was, and her worst fear was that it was a terminal illness. The fear was later abated as she learned more about the diagnosis. Amelia's heart’s desire was to help Deon so that her aunt and uncle would be happy again. She made up her mind that she would learn how to help children with disabilities and their families.

Deon is now grown, lives in Texas, and works at Walmart. Deon lives along with some support from programs similar to those offered by Rauch. As a part of his job, Deon is to keep the windows clean. It is said that he takes such pride in his window washing responsibilities that he will try to wash the windows in the dead of winter with them often freezing before he can get them cleaned.

Amelia has worked with many "Deon’s" over the past 30 years as an employee with Rauch. We're so grateful to have her heart, skills, and hard work as a driving force in our programming. Thank you for all you do, Amelia!

I am a lifelong resident of New Albany. I am fortunate to also work in this community as the Director of Development of Rauch, Inc. Rauch, a not-for-profit organization, has helped create a community where everyone belongs for people with disabilities for 60 years. Through this role, I help promote the agency to the general public, creating awareness of our contributions to those in need and support in the form of others' time, talent and treasure.

Rauch, Inc.

Rauch was founded in 1953 by a group of concerned parents who wanted their children with developmental disabilities to receive a quality education. Their school, which began in a church basement with a volunteer teacher, was the first school for children with disabilities in the State of Indiana.

Today, Rauch provides an array of services which help people with disabilities in Southern Indiana live full and meaningful lives. From preschool, early intervention therapy, and summer camp for children to a sheltered workshop, job placement, housing, day programs, and an art studio for adults, our programs are aimed at achieving our mission: to support people with disabilities and their families while encouraging a community that acknowledges the value and contribution of all people.

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thanks to all sponsors and participants for the 10th Annual golf scramble presented by title sponsor, Algood Food company on monday, september 10, 2018 at champions pointe golf club. We had a great time and look forward to seeing you next year!